I just had the exact surgery 06/03/2019, and today is my 26th birthday 07/13/2019...and I feel fantastic. I’ve had great results through the entire process. I woke up in recovery with less pain than I had when they put me to sleep, that fast I seen improvement. I still had normal surgery pain at the incision site, but nothing terrible. Took pain medicine for only 4 days and that’s it. Granted I am young, but my entire process has went great. God is good!!
I just had same L4-L5 spinal fusion surgery 6 weeks ago and just had my 6 weeks post-op check up today. Just had my 66th birthday during my recovery period. All is looking good, although I will admit as you have stated as well that boy, it does hurt right after the surgery, but it is been so worth it be pain-free now at this point. I managed to take the pain pills for about 4 days and then I just had to stop because of the constipation LOL. I was taking all kinds of laxatives and everything and I was not able to poop. So I stopped and that helped, but of course that resulted in a bit more pain for a while. But I'm happy I did it.. milk of magnesia is your friend in an emergency. Lol. But the key is, that I went in with a fair amount of trepidation as well, and the only reason my surgery was scheduled when it was, was because my knee replacement surgery got put on pause because of covid-19 (surgeries were postponed due the Delta variant surge). The surgery did put some extra strain on my knees as you try to get up/down with bending. You never realize how much you bend standing up from a chair until somebody tells you they don't want you to. But hey... I now get to add 5 Lbs additional lifting weight per week and actually get back in gym before long. Initially I was not allowed to lift anything over the weight of a jug of milk. I am still walking as I am able and when my knees allow. Doing about 2 miles/day. Overall though... The whole surgical process was fast.. I was in a 6:30 am and home same day at 6pm. Had I not been able to make the PT folks happy, they probably would have kept me overnight. At this point in time, I still feel like I am feeling things in my lower back, kind of like I'm laying on a plate, but my doctor says that is just a process of my muscles still healing together, and they get pretty firm during that process. Oh, and I gained an inch and a half in height as they cinched down those rods. LOL LOL. I have regained the height I've lost over my lifetime as I shrunk his most will do overtime. I guess I would summarize, and aligned with what Kyle has stated and that is you really trading a short period of relatively reasonably significant pain for a life of ongoing pain. I opted to try to get rid of the long-term pain. I am very happy I did! Good luck to all of you considering this and don't be fearful, just make sure you have a good surgeon. Thanks for your video Kyle. I think it is useful for folks to share their experiences like this, for the internet can scare the crap out of you and perhaps make you not do the right thing.
Better take care of back , weight and health . My L-4-5 Laminectomy was in 93 . Whole spine collapsed now . Around 50 things got bad now 63 can barely walk .
I feel great, it's been over 8 months now and I haven't felt this good in 15 to 20 years. For me, this was a huge success. Scary process for sure but if you have the right doctors, right frame of mind, and the right support group around you, I'm sure your surgery will be successful as well. Keep the faith, keep a positive attitude, and good things can and will happen.
hello mate. I'm suffering with L4, L5 & S1 is damage with disck bulge. I've been advised by my surgeon to have the operation done but I'm so scared of the pain and want to be able to go to the toilet. I'm on heavy meds but still in lot if pain. any advice mate?
I'm scheduled for surgery on the 27th of this month and have been stressing out. I've done tons of research and thank you for this video. You have gave me a lil peace of mind cuz some of the videos I've thought the same things as you have. I really appreciate this.
Thanks Kyle. Im 16 days post op from L4-L5-S1. I'm a 51 year old active dude in both my professional life and personal life (cop with an active K9, boater, hiker, etc) and wound up with disc issues, stenosis, and a 12mm cyst in my Spinal column pinching everything off. Did the best I could for months before seeing a doc and getting diagnosed. The word was no amount of PT or exercise or meds were going to fix all the issues. I, like you, was scared to death, especially when you rely on "Dr Google" and all the horror stories you see on YT. But, with no other option, I did it. Walked 2 hours after I woke up from surgery and knew I made the right choice. The recovery is TERRIBLE, and I'm nowhere near there yet, but everyday when I take my walks, I smile knowing the surgery pain is temporary, and the nerve pain is gone. Again, thx for the positive story! I've made a video or 2 about my experience as well.
Glad to hear you’ve had a good experience as well. We need more positive outcomes, not everyone has a bad experience. Good luck on your recovery, I’m still doing great.
Man that was just what I needed to hear!! I’m a very active 64 year old with my L4L5 fusion 2 weeks in today and the pain has been tough but hearing your journey gives me hope. As a fellow Christian,your story was God sent this morning. Thanks for giving a story of hope to a lot of people. God bless everybody and hang in there.
Thanks for sharing. I am scheduled for Nov 1st. Had a hip resurfacing last Feb. That was fantastic as it took the pain away. Surgical pain is tolerable as it lessens in time.
Thank you Kyle for making this video. I scared as sh**8. Second Surgery date 1/23/2020. In February 2019, I had a microdiscectomy of my L5 S1 nerve because I woke up one morning and dropped from my bed. I couldn't walk. I thought I was paralysis. I was screaming for my 16 yr old son to drag me to the bathroom so I wouldn't urine on myself. I was in and out the ER for 2 weeks (every 2 days) crying fighting paying $75 co pays each visit until I had to bring in my MRI to show proof that I couldn't apply pressure to my left leg/foot. Then they finally admitted me. You should have seen my MRI, it looked like a Milky Way of fragments from the herniated disc was surrounding/attacking my nerve. I was in soo much pain, I was drugged up from Friday until Monday when the Orthopedic team agreed I was a candidate for surgery. After surgery, I was out the hospital in two days. Then in May, I herniated the disc again by sneezing. Exactly! I couldn't move out my bed for an hour. I cried because I felt stuck. Then (3) several epidural injections 3 months back to back. Didn't help. Then I started going to a chiropractor last month. And she actually help relieve the nerve pain on my left side of my leg & butt. I don't limp when I walk anymore. My orthopedic surgeon was upset that I had adjustments to my lower back. He believes the extra disc herniation (compared to May MRI) came from the adjustments based on my MRI, Xray, CT scan. But at that time, I only had 3 Chiropractor sessions. My L5 is pretty much bone to bone, disc showing pressing on nerve and squeeze out & slight fluid in my back. So now the only pain I have is muscle back pain when I sit too long in one spot. My chiropractor is against surgery due to the fact its only one herniated disc. In my heart I'm asking God to give me more time or show me a sign that I don't need this surgery and that the disc popped back in. I just have too much happening in my life of starting my business and I don't need another set back. Pray for me.
Thankyou kyle, you have helped me so much, i have just had l5s1 tlif 4days ago, i thought i made a mistake, i am in more pain now ,triple painkillers, but hearing your story lifted me. Your story mirrored my story, i was a roofer and had a fall 15yrs ago but didnt know i damaged anything till 4mths ago, same thing with me in shopping malls or large building sites. I look forward to reading your other posts.👍👊
Me too. Its 4 th week po surgery. Infact very painfull than before. But when heared patients experience it s common. Time will b change everything. I have still pain in lowerback.sitting is most painful
I’ve been dealing with the same pain for about 5yrs and have completely lost feeling in lefts side and praying that the do something soon I’m 31 and want to be able to run after my kids! Your video just gave me hope! Doctor finally recommending me to spine specialist I don’t want to be paralyzed at 35
Kyle - Thanks for sharing your experience with back surgery and thanks for helping to generate so many comments about back surgery, they are really very helpful.
Thank you so much for sharing! I'm just like you. Right in that area where I'm absolutely terrified, but surgery should solve all of the problems I've been having for the last 4 years. Watching someone with a positive outcome gives me that little bit of hope that I need. Thanks!
Thank you for posting this because I was getting anxious about my pain , it will be only 2 weeks tomorrow for fusion 3 and 4 and yesterday starting getting nerve pain down the front of my legs but after seeing you video in more encourager , Still on Gabapentin and hydrocodone trying to get off the pain med !Im going for a walk like they told me so I can build up myself back up because I use to swim but can't till my incisions heal Thanks again!
Congratulations! I myself have had many (20+) spinal surgeries over my lifetime due to a spinal deformity and I have been through it all. It is refreshing to finally hear someone speak truthfully about their experience and not exaggerate the negatives on what spinal surgery is about. In my experience, the chronic pain I felt every day prior to surgery was far worse than the acute pain you feel right after surgery. And then every day after that, your pain reduces dramatically. It is the excitement of being able to actually move, (or in my case...walk again), that makes me question why I was ever scared in the first place. Today I am 3 years out of a 7 surgical procedures (over a 2 mo. hospital stay) Full Spinal Reconstruction surgery that took me from a life of wheelchairs to now walking on my own. Thank you for sharing your Success Story to show others how amazing life can possibly be when you take that leap of faith and don't listen to the naysayers. Best of Luck!
Beth Anne Richardson Thank you for your kind words and for being an encouragement to others. Everyone's experience is different as I said but they are not all bad. It can be life changing for sure. I hope and pray you continue to improve. Have a great day....
Beth Anne Richardson my you please share with me your email or instagram so that we may talk. I myself have a spinal deformity as well as other issues with my spine. I would love to talk to you as you have given me hope in the middle of my anxiety and fear. Thanks.
Thanks for making and sharing this video!! I just got mine done, I was literally feeling the same way you were, even up to the day of the surgery. It’s been only 4 days and I’m walking around with some assistances to none, but I do have pain. The first couple of nights so far have been the worst but I couldn’t be any happier, especially that I lived with the shooting and numbness pain for approximately 7yrs.. definitely great seeing others posting their testimony and hopefully I’ll make one too soon.
He told me that it wouldn't help with back pain, which wasn't my problem. I was having pain in my right buttocks and leg. He told me ahead of time that this would correct it. It did, thanks Kyle. Sorry to hear yours didn't go so well.
Hi , I am Katia, I had twice a hernia disc operation , and the hernia is coming always back at the same place, the surgeon now also suggested a fusion , but as you say we are all different. With me the pain is only very heavy in the lower back but with shooting pains, and sometimes it shoots tô my butt. And not only that I also have artrose in my hips...they told me that in the future I probably need hip replacement...not nice to here something like that if you are 48 only...I normally like to hit the gym but didn't go for almost one year and it's making me so depressed!!! But when I saw the screws they put I already freaked out ....so I will think about it very long and try to go to the gym for stretch and try to work on my abdomen to make them strong again and also my lower back muscle.....if that doesn't work ...I would do it also.... You are very brave thanks for sharing your story 🙏🏼💋
Earl Harman hey man, do u have any physical limitations now that u had the surgery? ive heard people cant bend at the waist after they have this surgery. can you do everything u could before the surgery, except now with no pain? thanks!
Thanks for the video. I just was told this morning that I will need a fusion at L4-5 and while I'm looking forward to the idea of being pain free, the actual procedures involved are scaring me a lot! I don't know what I'm going to decide but your video gives me hope 😊
Thanks for posting this. I have been in pain forever and finally have a window at work where I can get this done. 53 and huge herniation at L4-5 and decent size L3-4
I’m about to get my surgery L3,4,5. Thank you for being proactive and sharing your experience!! This was definitely worth watching and hearing someone else’s story. I’m grateful to not be alone in this!
Thank you for this video, this is something that I am about to have to under go and like you, nervous about doing. Its good to hear someone in almost the same ordeal is doing so much better.
Thank you for the video, this is my second noninvasive surgery and it is the most painful compared to my first, though the first Surgery i was a lot younger and wasn't as extensive as this second one, the good thing about both Surgeries is that i had the same surgeon, one thing you mentioned in your Video that grabbed my attention was the support you had, i really believe that is what really helps get a person through anything in life, if not for my Son being here i don't know if i would have what it takes. Anyway, Thanks again and God bless
Hi Edwin just saw your comment after 4 years... Really wanna know that how your surgery went? And can you please tell me at what age you had your 1st surgery? And at what age you had your second one.?
Hi Kyle! I'm happy that I found your video. I'll be having the same procedure in a couple of months. I'm still afraid of having it done, but I hate pain and even worse have to take narcotics. I hope to have the same outcome as you, it ain't easy to live with pain for 10 years. Thanks for posting the video I feel much better.
Thank you for this Kyle!! I found your video RIGHT after I watched an actual surgery...and I wish that I hadn't! My fusion surgery is coming up in 3 weeks. You have made me feel much better!! THANK YOU!
Thanks for sharing this Kyle. I am pending an L3-S1 fusion in three weeks. I have been dealing with bad back pain for a over 10 years but am still very active. Been on the fence about having this surgery. Your video makes me me feel better about having the surgery.
Nice job- I just had L4-L5-S1 done ,felt the same way, almost bailed while in pre-op. I was incredibly anxious. So glad I had it done. Not quite 2 weeks out but doing great! And the best part is leg numbness is gone.
May God continue to bless you! I am about 3 weeks post-op and can already tell a major, positive difference. I'm really excited to reach the point you are at, currently. Thank you so much for sharing your story!
Good video, thanks. I'm in the same boat, was in a motorcycle accident and have a herniated l4-l5 and will need fusion surgery but I'm terrified to do it. However I've been in so much pain for the last 5 years that I'm ready to do anything, can't go on like this that's for sure... your video is comforting knowing that not everyone has a bad experience. Thanks Kyle
I can't thank you enough +Kyle Peek for posting this video. I will be having surgery on my lower back two weeks from today. I will have fusions as well as laminectomies on L1-L5. I am in a tremendous amount of pain, just as you were, so I just couldn't put the surgery off anymore. I am terrified but your video gives me hope. You have also inspired me to make a video series of my experiences as well so that maybe I can help others the way you have helped me. Thank you!!
Karma Cristie I'm so glad it helped you. I never dreamed so many people would watch this video and I think it's a great idea for you to do one as well. Good luck on your surgery, let me know how it goes and I will say a prayer for you.
Thank-you for the video. I can relate to everything you went through before your surgery. It's where I am now. and yes, even the scared to death part. You can just tell you're a good man and speaking from your heart. I appreciate your time with the video. It helps.
Thank you for sharing your story Kyle! I had fusion of l3/l4 on 1/8/2017. In March I had a right total hip replacement and 3 years ago I had fusion of l2/l3! Only 2 weeks out and I am walking 1.5 miles a day and managing on Tylenol Arthritis and Tramadol..no more heavy duty pain meds. While everyone's story and situation is different I chose to not put off this second fusion because all that the future held was more pain medication (which means being in pain) and a continued decrease in muscle, strength, and mobility. There was nothing that was going to fix my collapsed disc other than this surgery so decided to go for it and not look back. I won't sugar-coat it, it was rough especially the first few days (I also had a duratear during surgery) but each day it gets better and I make more progress. I am convinced my outcome thus far is due to not procrastinating and going in with a positive attitude and walking as much as possible. I also am a firm believer is using my Tens unit and massaging the incision area to stimulate blood flow which I think helps speed healing. This time I also am using a bone grown stimulator as it is my second fusion. I know we are all different but if any of this can help someone that would be great. Living in pain is not living! Maybe I'll drum up the courage and do my own video. Best wishes on your continued recovery!!
Michelle Pottorff thank you for your awesome words, people watch these videos and do get some hope out of them. This was the first video I have ever done and never thought so many people would watch it, but they do. So please, go ahead and make one, you can be a voice for the tons of people out there that are going thru or have gone thru what we have. You can give them hope and also let them know what to expect!! Good luck...
Hello sir. How was your fusion? I had mine done last sept 24 L4, L5, S1 and im still at the hospital right now its nov3.. Do you still experience back pain while doing simple tasks like washing your hands at the sink? Or wearing your underwear while standing up?
@@francismancao I have had good results so far! My surgery was Oct. 7th of this year. I was up walking within hours of waking up and was released from the hospital the next day. I'll be one month post-op this Wednesday. I walk about 1.5 to 2 miles a day and am working back into chores around the house. Tasks away from my body or over my head still cause more strain on the back than holding weight tight against my body. Hand washing can be slightly uncomfortable, I tend to push my thighs into the cabinet and brace the weight that way. Most of my pain is gone. I'm off pain killers and muscle relaxers on a daily basis, but do still take one if needed now and then. Started physical therapy today, it went well but drained me of energy quickly. The hardware seems to be the worst part for me now, getting used to feeling it and hopefully I won't notice it as much going forward. All my pain and numbness/tingling cause by a herniated disc and spondylolisthesis is gone! Getting better everyday. I hope you are ok! Not sure why you're still in the hospital, but stay strong. I had dark days. It's a long healing process... One day at a time 💪
@@matthewbackstrom2104 hi sir. Sorry for the late reply.. I was finally discharged from the hospital last november 10 and i really felt good. No more scatica/ radiculopathy pain.. Just some stiff lowerback feeling... Are you going to have your implant removed in the future? Or will you just leave it there? Hope all is well sir!
@@francismancao Glad you are doing better! I've only just recently (a week or so) been aware that removal was an option. I always assumed they would just be there forever. I'm going to ask my surgeon about it. Not really sure how long you have to wait before it's possible. I am only 6 weeks post-op, so I know my fusion isn't finished healing yet, but I can tell already that most of my discomfort is from the hardware. I'd kind of like it gone, but I notice it less each week that goes by. Time will tell I guess. I'm certainly not ready to jump back into surgery just yet!
Thank you so much for sharing. My fiancé is going to be scheduling for his surgery here soon and to hear your story. It puts me at ease a bit. I know he’s scared as am I (especially after his consultation). I’m glad you had a speedy recovery. Again, thank you for sharing.
I’m 4weeks post opp. I had l3,l4,l5,s1. I’ve been dealing with pain in my right leg down to my knee when I sat. When I stood my left leg would go numb. This has been going on for 20 yrs. just within the last 3 years it progressively got worse. So I pulled the trigger on the inevitable. Tell you what. It was the best decision I made. I have no more pain or numbness. I only used a walker in the hospital. I’ve been able to walk a mile for the 1st week. The second I can do more. I’m up to 4 miles on a bike and over 2 walking. I’m able to lift up to 25 lbs and can do machines at the gym that supports my back with light weights. I’m also supposed to be off the back brace within 8wks of my surgery. Like the video says. “Keep the faith”
Thank you! This video was extremely helpful. I've had back pain for over 15 years. I'm ready to get something done. Medicine and physical therapy no longer works.
Thanks for making this video. Like you all I found online were horror stories and so I put off surgery for a long time. Going to get it done now. Wish I hadn't wasted so much time. I think people with failed surgeries tend to be more likely to be vocal about it so that's mostly what you find online.
Yes, I think that's mostly what you also see with online reviews. They are usually weighted toward the complainers, because most people who are satisfied don't bother to comment or review. That's why it's great for people like Kyle to do these videos.
Im 70 and been in pain for years. Now cant be on my feet for more than 5 minutes at a time the pain gets so severe. Im having fusion and decompression in a few days. This gives me hope. Thank you for posting.
I am also 70 and one week post op, the pain I had before fusing three vertebrae was pure agony, I couldn’t walk without a stick and sometimes I just couldn’t walk. I too was really frightened about surgery but I felt I had nothing to lose in the end. When I awoke it was instant, the agonizing pain had gone. I am still very sore but every day I feel a little stronger. Best surgery I have had, it certainly has changed my life.
Thank-you for creating this video and sharing! It is very helpful to hear the success stories because, as you said, there are so many horror stories people share that it makes it really hard to be willing to have the surgery. I am supposed to have an L5-S1 fusion and it has been a really hard decision to make because of all the fear of something going wrong. Thank-you!
Really quite good. You are right at 4 weeks out. 2-3 years ago I had 2-3 fused. However 4-5 seems a bit more tenderness, but really can't complain. I stopped pain pills after 2 days. Just took Tylenol when needed after that. I hate all "dope style" pain pills. Now looking forward to 6 weeks on May 4. At 77 years old every day is a challenge! Thanks for thinking of me.
My hubby had his appointment with the surgeon yesterday, after being in tremendous pain for the past 2years, he is also in the construction industry (working foreman). We was told that he has L5 and L6 slipped discs that have slipped out and dipped downwards. He is needing to have this operation ASAP. But he continues to work which I'm super worried that he will make it worse. I'm so pleased to hear that your doing well sweetie. I watched this with my hubby being in the same industry as you this I hope done some good for him. Thank you so much for sharing.
Thank you for the encouraging words. I just had my surgery almost a month ago and I can’t finally take off my shirt and look in the mirror and see the results of my body being straight. No more having to give all I have to walk without a lean or hunch. I lost half my blood on the table and can’t remember the first 3-4 days after surgery but I’m happy I did it and a Big Thanks to my Wife for helping me through it. Keep making videos brother, I’d like to hear how your progress goes.
Steve, sorry to hear that but hang in there it'll get better. I had, not severe but bad nerve pain for several months after my surgery and took Gabapentin for a few months until it went away and it did go away after a while. I was told that the nerves were just firing and irritated after being pinched off for so long and then moved around during the surgery. It took a good 6 to 8 weeks for the pain to go down and get off so much meds but I'm still feeling great for the most part. I seem to be a little stiffer than I was but no pain. Keep me posted on your progress and I'll keep you in my prayers. Good luck.......
This is very important information he just provided. Too many people talk about their surgery and how great they feel afterwards, but somehow fail to mention that in many cases the nerve pain continues for several months after surgery. This does not mean surgery was a failure or you had a bad surgeon. This is very normal, so do just as Kyle did: Keep taking that Gabapentin until your nerves heal enough to stop hurting. That day will come but you just gotta be patient. Nerves are unlike any other part of your body in that they just take a long time to heal.
Thanks so much , I am 6 weeks out from L4 Disection of Ligament . Surgeon said very rare, Lucky me. I walk beach every other day . 50 mints, slow as I have stiffness and pain still.. You motivated me to walk more .. Thanks Your doing great!!
kyle thanks for video mate, I've had l4,l5,S1 fused before 2006 but now need revision surgery as it failed so it is really good to hear your story, thanks mate as I'm in a lot of pain and feeling very nervous so great to watch your video cheers Aj
Hello Kyle I had spine surgery 02/09/2017 on my lower lumbar, which turned out to be broke. Because of Spinal Stenosis, I know need a Spinal Fusion 11/30/2017. I've been trying to watch videos ask questions to convenience me not to be afraid. I'm 44 years old and it's not so much the surgery, it's the part about being dependent on another. See in my case, I'm Wife, Mother, Granny, Doctor, Teacher,Cleaners, House Keeper, Plumber, Cook etc. I fall my whole world I believe will come crumbling down around me trying to heal. I'm mortified of the healing process. I can say you were the shortest heal time. Thanks for your words of encouragement.
Hi Kyle. I am having spinal fusion L4 L5, spondylolisthesis surgery Friday February 3, 2017. I received a great deal of comfort from your video. You give me hope. Thank you.
Wow, I am ok. not ready for Olympic anything yet. Haha. Spent some time at Rehab facility, learned a lot. Still having some pain but not like before. This is more muscle pain from trying to maneuver through the house.
hi! im having the same exact surgery this summer. i was wondering, do u have any physical limitations now that the fusion was done? can u bend at the waist and touch ur toes? can you twist at the waist? can u lean side to side?
Thanks for posting. I’m an ER doctor and I’ve delayed this surgery as long as possible. I’ve seen every failed back surgery in at least 4 counties so it’s great to hear a success story!
Thank you for posting. I'm scared to death. My legs go numb constantly. L4, l5 s1. My son will soon be going to college. I want to be able to be there for him. Prayerfully it will help.
ADOREREDD God is good and I'm sure you will get thru it fine just as I did. Scared is an understatement, I've been there and I know what you're feeling. Keep the faith do what your Dr says, give it over to God and you will be just fine. I'll say a prayer for you and hope you get some comfort.
Thanks for sharing man, I was fused from T10-L4. Had multiple compression fractures. I was in ICU for 1&1/2 weeks and transported to the rehab floor for another 2&1/2 weeks. fast-forward 7 months from the accident/surgery, I still cant pick up heavy objects from the ground, I still cant run, BUT I can now go on long walks. I am back in school to change career paths (I was an arborist) I can go wherever I want. Ill never play competitive soccer again, nor will I ever snowboard. But to compromise I have picked up fly fishing and absolutely love it. I hadn't been to church in years but I haven't missed a week since I was able to. God may take the greatest of tragedies and orchestrate them out to be the biggest blessings. I wish upon nobody to go through what I have been through, but If you must know, it is worth it. I'm already doing activities to which I hadn't imagined I could do ever again. God Bless.
Thank you Br. KYLE for taking the time to assure someone like me who just had a similar surgery ,yesterday. I'm in a recovery mode still ( 24 hours after surgery). Your words were very assuring to me. Thank You, My Br. in Humanity.👍👍
Its been 7 months for me and im still using a walker, my surgery was the whole thorax had to be replaced, sometime I have pain but its not like in the beginning. I have 3 rods and over 20 screws and im just praying i will get better... i am 58.
I'm 2 1/2 years post l4 and l5 fusion and what I'm left with is sever siactica in my hip and right leg. I do calisthenics every morning to get moving and for walks every other day depending on the weather which now dictates my activity.. I'm 400.000 light years from what I use to be hope things get better soon but I'm a fighter.
Steve, thanks for reaching out. My pain level was maybe a 6 or 7 before the surgery. I could manage it with meds but the loosing feeling in my legs was scaring me. I have been playing golf now for about 7 months and believe it or not my game has improved. I've lost some distance but I hit it much straighter now, I don't swing nearly as hard. As far as the toilet, yep it's true. I think some people probably leave that part out and I hadn't heard that either but I can tell you it's not an easy task for a while. All and all I feel pretty good right now. I'm about 17 months post surgery and I'm feeling pretty good. Not 100%, I don't think you will ever be that again but the pain and loss of feeling are gone and that's an awesome outcome if you've had back issues for a while. There are still things I can't do or lift and things I just shouldn't do period but for the most part my quality of Life has improved dramatically. I hope your surgery goes well, don't hesitate to ask any questions.
Dear Kyle, i am so happy for you, that your surgery went well for you! My husband had the same fusion 20 years ago at the VA hospital...different outcome. Everybody is different and I would still always encourage to have the surgery done. God bless you and your life!
Thank you for your testimony Kyle. I am only 10 days removed from my L4-S1 fusion. I notice I get stronger everyday but at the moment I am getting extremely sharp muscle spasms going down my right leg. The Dr. said the pain is coming from the nerves. It is very uncomfortable the only thing that gives me some relief is Percocet. Do you recall those sharp pains in your recovery and if so how long did that go in until it stopped? I am restricted now to short walks and I'm looking forward to increasing my distance and getting stronger. I hope you continue to have relief. Prayers going out to you.
Matthew Punako that is normal, scary yes, but normal. I had sharp pain in my nerves for about 2 months, I was given Gabapentin until it went away but it did go away eventually. Keep it up it gets better, lots of walking is the best thing to do.
hi my names justin, I'm 27 from Tuscaloosa al, I was hit on my motorcycle 9/21/14 , shattered my L3 , had my l1 l2 l4 and l5 fused, almost 2 years out in a couple day, still hurt day to day at times but for the most part just try to be careful with lifting and twisting, beats being in a wheel chair because of my wreck, it'll get better, life's a garden dig it brother!
@@makeupbykhani8178 my back is better sir just took another hit... lady pulled out I front of me 7/7/2020 I woke up a month and a half later. Broke my right leg at a 90 degree tibia and fibia , had to have a rod in my shin , 1 of my kidneys had to be removed, my left collar bone was broken, my right elbow was shattered had to be rebuilt... I’m done riding bikes for good and I’m blessed to be here, god is good!
Kyle, Many thanks for doing this video, it really has put my mind at rest. Like you say, there is so much doom and gloom on youtube regarding L5/S1 fusion that I was beginning to doubt having it, even though I can only really walk or stand for about 60 seconds at a time. I am having a laminectomy also. Thanks to you I know what to expect in the first few weeks and will be ready and waiting for the pain ;-) Once again, many thanks
Hey Kyle, I was just told today that I need to have a PLIF L4-5 Fusion. Everything you said addressed where I'm at and feel that we have very similar situations that require surgical intervention. Thank you for posting this video and the encouragement you gave! God Bless!!!
I just had one I was scared to death too.6 days post surgery feeling pretty good still very sore still talking pain meds not as much left leg still going numb!! think it will get better
@@Vanessa-ju8hv still have leg pain in calves post ten months I have failed back surgery same issues sometimes much worse prior to surgery. My was workman's comp. They don't care if you die. I wish you the best! Everybody is different
I just had my second spinal fusion 4 days ago , am in so much pain don't know what to do, the first surgery was a failure the Dr. Kept telling me that I was gone heal but I never did I got worst, I went to another Dr. & he told me that the hardware was coming Loose, I had a wonderful Dr this time of course am in pain right now , that normal, but I think that am gone be fine🙏🏼🙏🏼hopefully
hazzatb I do feel better , but my back still not fused , don't know why? Cause the Dr. Took a lot of bone ,from my pelvis for the bone graft but my back still hurts , when I walk or do anything , I can't no longer work I resigned from my job 2 weeks ago , cause of the pain , I don't take narcotics , I just take meds to reduce the inflammation , on my last appointment he told me that my back was very inflame ,but I just gone live with the pain, cause I refused to have another spine surgery again,that is the worst surgery, i can't take the pain medicine after surgery ,either I was in a lot of pain after been in surgery for 8 hrs. I had a good Dr. this time , but my back was in bad shape , I had a tumor removed also, I just pray to God that it won't come back . Am glad surgery worked for you. God bless 🙏🏼
Great to hear!!!!!! 4 weeks out for me anterior and posterior l4,5 S1. 2surgeries back to back. Was in ICU for 2days. My digestive system shut down so was in hospital for 10 days. Thank you God for getting me home! My feet are more on fire than before, that could be a great thing . Nerves could be healing and just firing up! So we will see how it goes. LOL I said the same as far as "if I would do it over" NO WAY. However each day is a better day! I have faith as well and God willing I will heal to be better than pre surgery. Really happy for you👍 up and onward! God bless
im 5 days post surgery L5,S1 fusion. i feel great. the only thing is my damn hips hurt from laying on my side. but im walking about a football field and up and down stairs
Kyle Peek in the morning for the frist couple day/ week/weeksdid your legs feel cramped an felt like you just needed to move them a little to get the blood flowing and nerves firing again. next Tuesday will be my 2 week mark.
Richie hollis it was a few months before the nerves calmed down for me. It was probably one of the most frustrating parts not really being able to get much relief from that but eventually everything cal,ed back down and it was fine.
Thank you Kyle after 3 weeks now I've got nerve pain in the bend of my opposite leg now and when I called for more pain mess they tell me I have to start winging myself off now I'm nervous, so it's a normal thing to get more nerve pain a few weeks after surgery?
Thank you for this!! Second positive outcome I've found in one day after weeks of countless horror stories! I've been on the fence scheduling and now feel more confident in doing so. Hope your life has been going well since your surgery. God Bless.
Thanks for your video, I'm in for the same fusion next week and felt a bit crappy today as I thought I was having an artificial disc but due to other issues, it's going to be a fusion at L4/5 instead. I'm a (very) keen golfer and I've been really worried I'm not going to play again. Your vid has made me feel better - thanks 👍🏻 how long before you started playing golf again?
Simon, I didn't play for about 8 months and then I just took it real slow. The first few rounds I only played 9 or 10 holes because I just didn't want to push it. Now no problems and my score has dropped around 8 strokes or more simply because I just slowed everything down. Not all bad!!
+Kyle Peek thank you mate, feel a lot better about it all now, just been out to the store and just horrible annoying pain getting out of the car, carrying shopping etc.. Got to get this done, can't carry on like this! I've still been trying to play golf but has just about been pointless, hit my handicap once in last 2 years! 8 months sounds good to me - we're just coming up to Autumn/winter so I won't miss playing in the cold anyway! Thanks again, roll on next Thursday!
Hey Kyle, I had my L4 L5 TLIF surgery on 3/23/16 and the first 4 weeks recovery was as expected. However it is now 5 1/2 weeks post op and I still have back and nerve pain in legs. I have my 6 week post op appointment with surgeon on 5/4/16 and they will be doing x-Ray and ct scan so we will see what's going on. Disappointed so far because I have the same pain now that o had going into the surgery. I'm thinking that the L5 S1 level needs attention because I have a bulging disc at that level. Sucks. Anyway, How are you doing ?
I hate that for you , that's how I was after my first surgery, never got better, I just had another surgery 4 days ago , you're case sound like my, if you have all that pain your surgery didn't work , most likely you will need another one
Glad I watched your video. Am having a fusion done too and after watching other post I was shitting myself and thinking there is no way am going through this.but your post have calmed me down. Thanks
@@kylepeek840Thats awesome!! I'm glad it's working out for you!! I had L3-4 4-5 operated on for blown out discs. They wanted to do the dbl fusion but the one dr said "you don't want that right now. Just deal with what you have the best you can". The back isn't too bad. It's all in my legs😣. I'm used to feeling crappy now tho..lol. Hope everything keeps going good for you!!👍🏻
Hey Kyle......So I had my 6 week post op appointment with surgeon yesterday. We did a CT scan and everything looks good. (screws are in the right place) Got clearance to drive and return to office work 4 hour days for next 6 weeks. I start pool therapy next week. They still stay pain will get better. I also take gabapentin daily and pain meds only evening and night. Surprised that they say I can take ibuprofen because it is a blood thinner. Anyway it was good to hear that your pain lingered for 8 weeks because I thought I was not a normal recovery. Did you still have back pain at 6 weeks because my pain is 50/50 back and leg nerves. Did the pain gradually decrease over what period and when were you basically pain free ? Thanks for your reply. Hope you are doing well.
thanks much for this Kyle. I'm having L3 - L5 fused on November 6th. Apprehensive, nervous and somewhat scared, but your story gives me hope. Thanks for sharing. Jeff in KY
James McBride I am 54 and I have been doing fine but to be honest I have started to feel a little ache and pains starting to set in. Could just be the climate it's been down in the teens and 20's for a bit now but I feel it from time to time.
Kyle, Thanks for the reply every morning and through the day i am feeling worse. I feel like i am a crippled person. I hope they can do something for me. I have been waiting a month to see this doctor.
James McBride I hope you get in soon and they are able to deal with your pain. I understand believe me, I've been there, it can get better. Keep the faith.
Just had a spinal fusion of L3, L4, L5 W/"Cages" on 09-21-17. So Its been about a week now. My Orthopaedic Surgeon studied the procedure @ Swedish Hospital in Seattle, WA. I was walking on day 2, climbing stairs by day 3! Muscle spasms slowly began to subside. All of my pre-op symptoms (same as everyone's) are gone! Muscle-strength/control, is fantastic! Now looking forward to building my cardiovascular system back up after 10yr. of being sedentary. I'm 61yo. by the way. Just wanted to let folks know that there is hope! The Orthopedic Department @ Swedish Hospital has the Technology! The pain from the "less-invasive" surgery has been tolerable!🏋️♀️ Success❗️💪👏🏻
You are a good man .... i send you my love healing energy and my genuine blessing for your process my brother . Your family are very lucky to have you and the other way around 💜
I was diagnosed today with needing the same procedure...Oh My am I glad I watched your video...I'm so terrified of this spinal fusion procedure ..but grateful to you for talking openly about it..THANK YOU!
Thanks so much for posting this!! I meet my surgeon next thursday, October 5, 2017. I am super nervous, but this just made me feel a bit happier and ready to get back to my happy, not hurting self :( Congratulations that you are doing better, praying that you keep healing!
Hi Kyle I watched your videos before having my L2-L5 fusion and laminectomy, same issues as you beforehand. I’m almost 6 weeks out, still a bit of pain at the end of the day but much better during the day! Thanks for sharing it made the world of difference to me 😁
Nice to hear a good positive voice and good experience with the surgery, mine is scheduled in the near future, and I hope I can have a very positive experience.
Thanks for your honest approach, this is something I may be having done, so like you I've watched information on on tube and it's made me feel positive for this future life, thrives of being able to walk !y dogs again would be amazing, at the moment I can't walk without sticks and take a huge amount of medication for pain. Thanks for sharing your story x
I just had the exact surgery 06/03/2019, and today is my 26th birthday 07/13/2019...and I feel fantastic. I’ve had great results through the entire process. I woke up in recovery with less pain than I had when they put me to sleep, that fast I seen improvement. I still had normal surgery pain at the incision site, but nothing terrible. Took pain medicine for only 4 days and that’s it. Granted I am young, but my entire process has went great. God is good!!
I'm 24 yo and i'll be having this surgery in less than a month, i hope my young age will help with the recovery your comment gave me hope thank you
I just had same L4-L5 spinal fusion surgery 6 weeks ago and just had my 6 weeks post-op check up today. Just had my 66th birthday during my recovery period. All is looking good, although I will admit as you have stated as well that boy, it does hurt right after the surgery, but it is been so worth it be pain-free now at this point. I managed to take the pain pills for about 4 days and then I just had to stop because of the constipation LOL. I was taking all kinds of laxatives and everything and I was not able to poop. So I stopped and that helped, but of course that resulted in a bit more pain for a while. But I'm happy I did it.. milk of magnesia is your friend in an emergency. Lol. But the key is, that I went in with a fair amount of trepidation as well, and the only reason my surgery was scheduled when it was, was because my knee replacement surgery got put on pause because of covid-19 (surgeries were postponed due the Delta variant surge). The surgery did put some extra strain on my knees as you try to get up/down with bending. You never realize how much you bend standing up from a chair until somebody tells you they don't want you to. But hey... I now get to add 5 Lbs additional lifting weight per week and actually get back in gym before long. Initially I was not allowed to lift anything over the weight of a jug of milk.
I am still walking as I am able and when my knees allow. Doing about 2 miles/day.
Overall though... The whole surgical process was fast.. I was in a 6:30 am and home same day at 6pm. Had I not been able to make the PT folks happy, they probably would have kept me overnight.
At this point in time, I still feel like I am feeling things in my lower back, kind of like I'm laying on a plate, but my doctor says that is just a process of my muscles still healing together, and they get pretty firm during that process. Oh, and I gained an inch and a half in height as they cinched down those rods. LOL LOL. I have regained the height I've lost over my lifetime as I shrunk his most will do overtime.
I guess I would summarize, and aligned with what Kyle has stated and that is you really trading a short period of relatively reasonably significant pain for a life of ongoing pain. I opted to try to get rid of the long-term pain. I am very happy I did! Good luck to all of you considering this and don't be fearful, just make sure you have a good surgeon.
Thanks for your video Kyle. I think it is useful for folks to share their experiences like this, for the internet can scare the crap out of you and perhaps make you not do the right thing.
Better take care of back , weight and health . My L-4-5 Laminectomy was in 93 . Whole spine collapsed now . Around 50 things got bad now 63 can barely walk .
I feel great, it's been over 8 months now and I haven't felt this good in 15 to 20 years. For me, this was a huge success. Scary process for sure but if you have the right doctors, right frame of mind, and the right support group around you, I'm sure your surgery will be successful as well. Keep the faith, keep a positive attitude, and good things can and will happen.
hello mate. I'm suffering with L4, L5 & S1 is damage with disck bulge. I've been advised by my surgeon to have the operation done but I'm so scared of the pain and want to be able to go to the toilet. I'm on heavy meds but still in lot if pain. any advice mate?
Sash Liyanage didn't be afraid of it, the pain will be worse for a few days but it will get better..
thanks kyle. I really appreciate ur advice mate
I'm scheduled for surgery on the 27th of this month and have been stressing out. I've done tons of research and thank you for this video. You have gave me a lil peace of mind cuz some of the videos I've thought the same things as you have. I really appreciate this.
Cathy Harrell I'm glad it could help you and give you a little piece of mind. Good luck with your surg
Thanks Kyle. Im 16 days post op from L4-L5-S1.
I'm a 51 year old active dude in both my professional life and personal life (cop with an active K9, boater, hiker, etc) and wound up with disc issues, stenosis, and a 12mm cyst in my Spinal column pinching everything off. Did the best I could for months before seeing a doc and getting diagnosed. The word was no amount of PT or exercise or meds were going to fix all the issues.
I, like you, was scared to death, especially when you rely on "Dr Google" and all the horror stories you see on YT.
But, with no other option, I did it. Walked 2 hours after I woke up from surgery and knew I made the right choice.
The recovery is TERRIBLE, and I'm nowhere near there yet, but everyday when I take my walks, I smile knowing the surgery pain is temporary, and the nerve pain is gone.
Again, thx for the positive story!
I've made a video or 2 about my experience as well.
Glad to hear you’ve had a good experience as well. We need more positive outcomes, not everyone has a bad experience. Good luck on your recovery, I’m still doing great.
Man that was just what I needed to hear!! I’m a very active 64 year old with my L4L5 fusion 2 weeks in today and the pain has been tough but hearing your journey gives me hope. As a fellow Christian,your story was God sent this morning. Thanks for giving a story of hope to a lot of people. God bless everybody and hang in there.
Glad it helped, you got this.
Just had my first consult yesterday and learned I need the fusion. This helps a ton. Thank you for making this video!!
Thanks for sharing. I am scheduled for Nov 1st.
Had a hip resurfacing last Feb. That was fantastic as it took the pain away. Surgical pain is tolerable as it lessens in time.
Thank you Kyle for making this video. I scared as sh**8. Second Surgery date 1/23/2020. In February 2019, I had a microdiscectomy of my L5 S1 nerve because I woke up one morning and dropped from my bed. I couldn't walk. I thought I was paralysis. I was screaming for my 16 yr old son to drag me to the bathroom so I wouldn't urine on myself. I was in and out the ER for 2 weeks (every 2 days) crying fighting paying $75 co pays each visit until I had to bring in my MRI to show proof that I couldn't apply pressure to my left leg/foot. Then they finally admitted me. You should have seen my MRI, it looked like a Milky Way of fragments from the herniated disc was surrounding/attacking my nerve. I was in soo much pain, I was drugged up from Friday until Monday when the Orthopedic team agreed I was a candidate for surgery. After surgery, I was out the hospital in two days. Then in May, I herniated the disc again by sneezing. Exactly! I couldn't move out my bed for an hour. I cried because I felt stuck. Then (3) several epidural injections 3 months back to back. Didn't help. Then I started going to a chiropractor last month. And she actually help relieve the nerve pain on my left side of my leg & butt. I don't limp when I walk anymore. My orthopedic surgeon was upset that I had adjustments to my lower back. He believes the extra disc herniation (compared to May MRI) came from the adjustments based on my MRI, Xray, CT scan. But at that time, I only had 3 Chiropractor sessions. My L5 is pretty much bone to bone, disc showing pressing on nerve and squeeze out & slight fluid in my back. So now the only pain I have is muscle back pain when I sit too long in one spot. My chiropractor is against surgery due to the fact its only one herniated disc. In my heart I'm asking God to give me more time or show me a sign that I don't need this surgery and that the disc popped back in. I just have too much happening in my life of starting my business and I don't need another set back. Pray for me.
Temika Walker wow, sounds like you have a lot going on... good luck. I’ll be praying.
Thx, Kyle. That’s why I’ve stated on the meds since pain is the only reason. Appreciate ur help for me and others confused. 🙏🌟
Thankyou kyle, you have helped me so much, i have just had l5s1 tlif 4days ago, i thought i made a mistake, i am in more pain now ,triple painkillers, but hearing your story lifted me. Your story mirrored my story, i was a roofer and had a fall 15yrs ago but didnt know i damaged anything till 4mths ago, same thing with me in shopping malls or large building sites. I look forward to reading your other posts.👍👊
Me too. Its 4 th week po surgery. Infact very painfull than before. But when heared patients experience it s common. Time will b change everything.
I have still pain in lowerback.sitting is most painful
Anthony Virovac how are you feeling? Has the pain subsided?
I’ve been dealing with the same pain for about 5yrs and have completely lost feeling in lefts side and praying that the do something soon I’m 31 and want to be able to run after my kids! Your video just gave me hope! Doctor finally recommending me to spine specialist I don’t want to be paralyzed at 35
Kyle - Thanks for sharing your experience with back surgery and thanks for helping to generate so many comments about back surgery, they are really very helpful.
Thank you so much for sharing! I'm just like you. Right in that area where I'm absolutely terrified, but surgery should solve all of the problems I've been having for the last 4 years. Watching someone with a positive outcome gives me that little bit of hope that I need. Thanks!
Thank you for posting this because I was getting anxious about my pain , it will be only 2 weeks tomorrow for fusion 3 and 4 and yesterday starting getting nerve pain down the front of my legs but after seeing you video in more encourager , Still on Gabapentin and hydrocodone trying to get off the pain med !Im going for a walk like they told me so I can build up myself back up because I use to swim but can't till my incisions heal Thanks again!
Angela, hang it there, it will get better. After 5 or 6 weeks is when I felt the biggest improvement.
Congratulations! I myself have had many (20+) spinal surgeries over my lifetime due to a spinal deformity and I have been through it all. It is refreshing to finally hear someone speak truthfully about their experience and not exaggerate the negatives on what spinal surgery is about.
In my experience, the chronic pain I felt every day prior to surgery was far worse than the acute pain you feel right after surgery. And then every day after that, your pain reduces dramatically. It is the excitement of being able to actually move, (or in my case...walk again), that makes me question why I was ever scared in the first place.
Today I am 3 years out of a 7 surgical procedures (over a 2 mo. hospital stay) Full Spinal Reconstruction surgery that took me from a life of wheelchairs to now walking on my own.
Thank you for sharing your Success Story to show others how amazing life can possibly be when you take that leap of faith and don't listen to the naysayers.
Best of Luck!
Beth Anne Richardson Thank you for your kind words and for being an encouragement to others. Everyone's experience is different as I said but they are not all bad. It can be life changing for sure. I hope and pray you continue to improve. Have a great day....
Beth Anne Richardson my you please share with me your email or instagram so that we may talk. I myself have a spinal deformity as well as other issues with my spine. I would love to talk to you as you have given me hope in the middle of my anxiety and fear. Thanks.
Thank you for your honesty it's really appreciated. I have the same surgery very soon . You have helped a lot.
Thanks for making and sharing this video!! I just got mine done, I was literally feeling the same way you were, even up to the day of the surgery. It’s been only 4 days and I’m walking around with some assistances to none, but I do have pain. The first couple of nights so far have been the worst but I couldn’t be any happier, especially that I lived with the shooting and numbness pain for approximately 7yrs.. definitely great seeing others posting their testimony and hopefully I’ll make one too soon.
I had L4-5 spinal fusion done on Oct. 31, 2016, and I feel great now. Absolutely no pain now. I am so glad I had it done.
Earl Harman so glad it worked out for you and you had a great result as well.
He told me that it wouldn't help with back pain, which wasn't my problem. I was having pain in my right buttocks and leg. He told me ahead of time that this would correct it. It did, thanks Kyle. Sorry to hear yours didn't go so well.
Hi , I am Katia, I had twice a hernia disc operation , and the hernia is coming always back at the same place, the surgeon now also suggested a fusion , but as you say we are all different. With me the pain is only very heavy in the lower back but with shooting pains, and sometimes it shoots tô my butt. And not only that I also have artrose in my hips...they told me that in the future I probably need hip replacement...not nice to here something like that if you are 48 only...I normally like to hit the gym but didn't go for almost one year and it's making me so depressed!!!
But when I saw the screws they put I already freaked out ....so I will think about it very long and try to go to the gym for stretch and try to work on my abdomen to make them strong again and also my lower back muscle.....if that doesn't work ...I would do it also....
You are very brave thanks for sharing your story 🙏🏼💋
Earl Harman hey man, do u have any physical limitations now that u had the surgery? ive heard people cant bend at the waist after they have this surgery. can you do everything u could before the surgery, except now with no pain? thanks!
This gives me hope.. I hope mine will be gone after surgery too
Thanks for the video. I just was told this morning that I will need a fusion at L4-5 and while I'm looking forward to the idea of being pain free, the actual procedures involved are scaring me a lot! I don't know what I'm going to decide but your video gives me hope 😊
What did u decide
Thank you so much for posting. It is really helpful for me to hear this! Thanks for speaking up and sharing!
THANKS for taking the time to do this video. Really helpful!
Thanks for posting this. I have been in pain forever and finally have a window at work where I can get this done. 53 and huge herniation at L4-5 and decent size L3-4
I’m about to get my surgery L3,4,5. Thank you for being proactive and sharing your experience!! This was definitely worth watching and hearing someone else’s story. I’m grateful to not be alone in this!
Hi Kateio. Hope you are fine
How your surgery went???
If you see my message then must reply...
Thank you for this video, this is something that I am about to have to under go and like you, nervous about doing. Its good to hear someone in almost the same ordeal is doing so much better.
Thanks Kyle. I'm going in for mine in 6 weeks and you've put me at ease. I needed to hear this.
Thank you for the video, this is my second noninvasive surgery and it is the most painful compared to my first, though the first Surgery i was a lot younger and wasn't as extensive as this second one, the good thing about both Surgeries is that i had the same surgeon, one thing you mentioned in your Video that grabbed my attention was the support you had, i really believe that is what really helps get a person through anything in life, if not for my Son being here i don't know if i would have what it takes. Anyway, Thanks again and God bless
Hi Edwin just saw your comment after 4 years...
Really wanna know that how your surgery went?
And can you please tell me at what age you had your 1st surgery? And at what age you had your second one.?
Hi Kyle! I'm happy that I found your video. I'll be having the same procedure in a couple of months. I'm still afraid of having it done, but I hate pain and even worse have to take narcotics. I hope to have the same outcome as you, it ain't easy to live with pain for 10 years. Thanks for posting the video I feel much better.
Loyda Euraque Amaya good luck with your surgery, let us know how it goes.
Thank you for taking the time to record this video very encouraging.
Thank you for this Kyle!! I found your video RIGHT after I watched an actual surgery...and I wish that I hadn't! My fusion surgery is coming up in 3 weeks. You have made me feel much better!! THANK YOU!
Thanks for sharing this Kyle. I am pending an L3-S1 fusion in three weeks. I have been dealing with bad back pain for a over 10 years but am still very active. Been on the fence about having this surgery. Your video makes me me feel better about having the surgery.
BigPappaMurf Glad it could help, hope yours goes great for you as well. Good luck and God bless.
Nice job- I just had L4-L5-S1 done ,felt the same way, almost bailed while in pre-op. I was incredibly anxious. So glad I had it done. Not quite 2 weeks out but doing great! And the best part is leg numbness is gone.
Did you have a ALIF or TLIF?
May God continue to bless you! I am about 3 weeks post-op and can already tell a major, positive difference. I'm really excited to reach the point you are at, currently. Thank you so much for sharing your story!
Thank you so much for doing the video. You give me hope! God bless you!
Thank you, and God bless you as well...
Good video, thanks. I'm in the same boat, was in a motorcycle accident and have a herniated l4-l5 and will need fusion surgery but I'm terrified to do it. However I've been in so much pain for the last 5 years that I'm ready to do anything, can't go on like this that's for sure... your video is comforting knowing that not everyone has a bad experience. Thanks Kyle
Kyle Schwanz glad the video can help, good luck.
Did you get the surgery? How did it turn out for your
I can't thank you enough +Kyle Peek for posting this video. I will be having surgery on my lower back two weeks from today. I will have fusions as well as laminectomies on L1-L5. I am in a tremendous amount of pain, just as you were, so I just couldn't put the surgery off anymore. I am terrified but your video gives me hope. You have also inspired me to make a video series of my experiences as well so that maybe I can help others the way you have helped me. Thank you!!
Karma Cristie I'm so glad it helped you. I never dreamed so many people would watch this video and I think it's a great idea for you to do one as well. Good luck on your surgery, let me know how it goes and I will say a prayer for you.
Karma Cristie how did it go for you?
Your video was the first video I came across. I'm hoping this kind of surgery will help me out and your video was very helpful thanks for sharing.
Thank-you for the video. I can relate to everything you went through before your surgery. It's where I am now. and yes, even the scared to death part. You can just tell you're a good man and speaking from your heart. I appreciate your time with the video. It helps.
Bernice Frank glad it could help you, good luck.
Thank you for sharing your story Kyle! I had fusion of l3/l4 on 1/8/2017. In March I had a right total hip replacement and 3 years ago I had fusion of l2/l3! Only 2 weeks out and I am walking 1.5 miles a day and managing on Tylenol Arthritis and Tramadol..no more heavy duty pain meds. While everyone's story and situation is different I chose to not put off this second fusion because all that the future held was more pain medication (which means being in pain) and a continued decrease in muscle, strength, and mobility. There was nothing that was going to fix my collapsed disc other than this surgery so decided to go for it and not look back. I won't sugar-coat it, it was rough especially the first few days (I also had a duratear during surgery) but each day it gets better and I make more progress. I am convinced my outcome thus far is due to not procrastinating and going in with a positive attitude and walking as much as possible. I also am a firm believer is using my Tens unit and massaging the incision area to stimulate blood flow which I think helps speed healing. This time I also am using a bone grown stimulator as it is my second fusion. I know we are all different but if any of this can help someone that would be great. Living in pain is not living! Maybe I'll drum up the courage and do my own video. Best wishes on your continued recovery!!
Michelle Pottorff thank you for your awesome words, people watch these videos and do get some hope out of them. This was the first video I have ever done and never thought so many people would watch it, but they do. So please, go ahead and make one, you can be a voice for the tons of people out there that are going thru or have gone thru what we have. You can give them hope and also let them know what to expect!! Good luck...
I'm having L4-S1 fusion done in three weeks. I'm only 37, and I have all your same fears. This helped so much. Thank you for this video!!!!
Hello sir. How was your fusion? I had mine done last sept 24 L4, L5, S1 and im still at the hospital right now its nov3.. Do you still experience back pain while doing simple tasks like washing your hands at the sink? Or wearing your underwear while standing up?
@@francismancao I have had good results so far! My surgery was Oct. 7th of this year. I was up walking within hours of waking up and was released from the hospital the next day. I'll be one month post-op this Wednesday. I walk about 1.5 to 2 miles a day and am working back into chores around the house. Tasks away from my body or over my head still cause more strain on the back than holding weight tight against my body. Hand washing can be slightly uncomfortable, I tend to push my thighs into the cabinet and brace the weight that way. Most of my pain is gone. I'm off pain killers and muscle relaxers on a daily basis, but do still take one if needed now and then. Started physical therapy today, it went well but drained me of energy quickly. The hardware seems to be the worst part for me now, getting used to feeling it and hopefully I won't notice it as much going forward. All my pain and numbness/tingling cause by a herniated disc and spondylolisthesis is gone! Getting better everyday.
I hope you are ok! Not sure why you're still in the hospital, but stay strong. I had dark days. It's a long healing process... One day at a time 💪
@@matthewbackstrom2104 hi sir. Sorry for the late reply.. I was finally discharged from the hospital last november 10 and i really felt good. No more scatica/ radiculopathy pain.. Just some stiff lowerback feeling... Are you going to have your implant removed in the future? Or will you just leave it there? Hope all is well sir!
@@francismancao Glad you are doing better! I've only just recently (a week or so) been aware that removal was an option. I always assumed they would just be there forever. I'm going to ask my surgeon about it. Not really sure how long you have to wait before it's possible. I am only 6 weeks post-op, so I know my fusion isn't finished healing yet, but I can tell already that most of my discomfort is from the hardware. I'd kind of like it gone, but I notice it less each week that goes by. Time will tell I guess. I'm certainly not ready to jump back into surgery just yet!
Thank you so much! I've been terrified and I've had 13 surgeries over my life but nothing like this. Your video has made me feel so much more hopeful.
Karin Earnst I’m glad it could help, good luck and God bless...
Thank you so much for sharing. My fiancé is going to be scheduling for his surgery here soon and to hear your story. It puts me at ease a bit. I know he’s scared as am I (especially after his consultation). I’m glad you had a speedy recovery. Again, thank you for sharing.
I’m 4weeks post opp. I had l3,l4,l5,s1. I’ve been dealing with pain in my right leg down to my knee when I sat. When I stood my left leg would go numb. This has been going on for 20 yrs. just within the last 3 years it progressively got worse. So I pulled the trigger on the inevitable. Tell you what. It was the best decision I made. I have no more pain or numbness. I only used a walker in the hospital. I’ve been able to walk a mile for the 1st week. The second I can do more. I’m up to 4 miles on a bike and over 2 walking. I’m able to lift up to 25 lbs and can do machines at the gym that supports my back with light weights. I’m also supposed to be off the back brace within 8wks of my surgery. Like the video says. “Keep the faith”
Hello friend how you doing now years later
Thank you! This video was extremely helpful. I've had back pain for over 15 years. I'm ready to get something done. Medicine and physical therapy no longer works.
Yvette Boheme I'm glad it helped you, good luck
I'm glad that you are feeling better. I'll soon have the same surgery and your testimony was a lot of help to me. Thanks.
Thanks for making this video. Like you all I found online were horror stories and so I put off surgery for a long time. Going to get it done now. Wish I hadn't wasted so much time. I think people with failed surgeries tend to be more likely to be vocal about it so that's mostly what you find online.
Chad Bob Good luck and I hope yours goes great as well...
Yes, I think that's mostly what you also see with online reviews. They are usually weighted toward the complainers, because most people who are satisfied don't bother to comment or review. That's why it's great for people like Kyle to do these videos.
Chad Bob thanks flash, sometimes I wonder if anybody even watches it, I'm glad they do!!
Im 70 and been in pain for years. Now cant be on my feet for more than 5 minutes at a time the pain gets so severe. Im having fusion and decompression in a few days. This gives me hope. Thank you for posting.
I'm in the same spot as you. I'm scheduling surgery on Friday! We can get through this!
@@nicholkessell3008 have you had it?
I am also 70 and one week post op, the pain I had before fusing three vertebrae was pure agony, I couldn’t walk without a stick and sometimes I just couldn’t walk. I too was really frightened about surgery but I felt I had nothing to lose in the end. When I awoke it was instant, the agonizing pain had gone. I am still very sore but every day I feel a little stronger. Best surgery I have had, it certainly has changed my life.
Thank-you for creating this video and sharing! It is very helpful to hear the success stories because, as you said, there are so many horror stories people share that it makes it really hard to be willing to have the surgery. I am supposed to have an L5-S1 fusion and it has been a really hard decision to make because of all the fear of something going wrong. Thank-you!
Thank you for posting this ... I needed to hear it!!
I'm headed to the hospital 3/22/2017 for the exact same surgery. Really appreciate this video.
Loy Banks good luck with your surgery, I'll say a prayer and hope you have a great outcome.
Roy Banks. Good luck with your surgery. You are in my prayers. Please give us an update.
Hey Loy, how you feeling a month out?
Really quite good. You are right at 4 weeks out. 2-3 years ago I had 2-3 fused. However 4-5 seems a bit more tenderness, but really can't complain. I stopped pain pills after 2 days. Just took Tylenol when needed after that. I hate all "dope style" pain pills. Now looking forward to 6 weeks on May 4. At 77 years old every day is a challenge! Thanks for thinking of me.
+Loy Banks (LB) holy cow! Man you inspire me. Glad you're doing good. I go in on May 9th.
My hubby had his appointment with the surgeon yesterday, after being in tremendous pain for the past 2years, he is also in the construction industry (working foreman). We was told that he has L5 and L6 slipped discs that have slipped out and dipped downwards. He is needing to have this operation ASAP. But he continues to work which I'm super worried that he will make it worse. I'm so pleased to hear that your doing well sweetie. I watched this with my hubby being in the same industry as you this I hope done some good for him. Thank you so much for sharing.
Donna good luck and I pray he has a good outcome as well...
Kyle Peek ... Thank you sweetie x
Thank you for the encouraging words. I just had my surgery almost a month ago and I can’t finally take off my shirt and look in the mirror and see the results of my body being straight. No more having to give all I have to walk without a lean or hunch. I lost half my blood on the table and can’t remember the first 3-4 days after surgery but I’m happy I did it and a Big Thanks to my Wife for helping me through it. Keep making videos brother, I’d like to hear how your progress goes.
Thank You I am exactly where you were. Having second thoughts because of what i read. this has helped me so much
Thank you Kyle-I needed your real words of encouragement! I am facing an L5/S1 in December, and I too am a Christian! God speed with your healing! 🙏🤺
Nick Cooper how are you doing?
Steve, sorry to hear that but hang in there it'll get better. I had, not severe but bad nerve pain for several months after my surgery and took Gabapentin for a few months until it went away and it did go away after a while. I was told that the nerves were just firing and irritated after being pinched off for so long and then moved around during the surgery. It took a good 6 to 8 weeks for the pain to go down and get off so much meds but I'm still feeling great for the most part. I seem to be a little stiffer than I was but no pain. Keep me posted on your progress and I'll keep you in my prayers. Good luck.......
Hi Kyle, I'm getting L4L5 fusion in August. How are you doing 4 years out??
This is very important information he just provided. Too many people talk about their surgery and how great they feel afterwards, but somehow fail to mention that in many cases the nerve pain continues for several months after surgery. This does not mean surgery was a failure or you had a bad surgeon. This is very normal, so do just as Kyle did: Keep taking that Gabapentin until your nerves heal enough to stop hurting. That day will come but you just gotta be patient. Nerves are unlike any other part of your body in that they just take a long time to heal.
Thanks so much , I am 6 weeks out from L4 Disection of Ligament . Surgeon said very rare, Lucky me. I walk beach every other day . 50 mints, slow as I have stiffness and pain still.. You motivated me to walk more .. Thanks Your doing great!!
kyle thanks for video mate, I've had l4,l5,S1 fused before 2006 but now need revision surgery as it failed so it is really good to hear your story, thanks mate as I'm in a lot of pain and feeling very nervous so great to watch your video
cheers Aj
Hello Kyle I had spine surgery 02/09/2017 on my lower lumbar, which turned out to be broke. Because of Spinal Stenosis, I know need a Spinal Fusion 11/30/2017. I've been trying to watch videos ask questions to convenience me not to be afraid. I'm 44 years old and it's not so much the surgery, it's the part about being dependent on another. See in my case, I'm Wife, Mother, Granny, Doctor, Teacher,Cleaners, House Keeper, Plumber, Cook etc. I fall my whole world I believe will come crumbling down around me trying to heal. I'm mortified of the healing process. I can say you were the shortest heal time. Thanks for your words of encouragement.
Ebonni White-Freeman good luck, keep the faith and you’ll be fine.
Hi Kyle. I am having spinal fusion L4 L5, spondylolisthesis surgery Friday February 3, 2017. I received a great deal of comfort from your video. You give me hope. Thank you.
Kathy Blake I'm glad it could be of some comfort to you, good luck with your surgery I'll say a prayer for you.
Kathy, I had my L4/L5 fusion on the same day in Minneapolis. How are you feeling? Compared to day 1 I am ready for Olympic time trials! Haha.
Wow, I am ok. not ready for Olympic anything yet. Haha. Spent some time at Rehab facility, learned a lot. Still having some pain but not like before. This is more muscle pain from trying to maneuver through the house.
Hi Matt, I am ok. Still wobbly and unbalanced. It will come with time I guess. I also have MS. One day at a time. How are you doing?
hi! im having the same exact surgery this summer. i was wondering, do u have any physical limitations now that the fusion was done? can u bend at the waist and touch ur toes? can you twist at the waist? can u lean side to side?
Thanks for posting this. I am also 6 weeks out today from L5S1 fusion and I am feeling great too. good luck to you! RB
Thanks for posting. I’m an ER doctor and I’ve delayed this surgery as long as possible. I’ve seen every failed back surgery in at least 4 counties so it’s great to hear a success story!
Thank you for posting. I'm scared to death. My legs go numb constantly. L4, l5 s1. My son will soon be going to college. I want to be able to be there for him. Prayerfully it will help.
ADOREREDD God is good and I'm sure you will get thru it fine just as I did. Scared is an understatement, I've been there and I know what you're feeling. Keep the faith do what your Dr says, give it over to God and you will be just fine. I'll say a prayer for you and hope you get some comfort.
ADOREREDD how are you now?
ADOREREDD hope all is well with you.
Thanks for sharing man, I was fused from T10-L4. Had multiple compression fractures. I was in ICU for 1&1/2 weeks and transported to the rehab floor for another 2&1/2 weeks.
fast-forward 7 months from the accident/surgery, I still cant pick up heavy objects from the ground, I still cant run, BUT I can now go on long walks. I am back in school to change career paths (I was an arborist) I can go wherever I want.
Ill never play competitive soccer again, nor will I ever snowboard. But to compromise I have picked up fly fishing and absolutely love it. I hadn't been to church in years but I haven't missed a week since I was able to. God may take the greatest of tragedies and orchestrate them out to be the biggest blessings. I wish upon nobody to go through what I have been through, but If you must know, it is worth it. I'm already doing activities to which I hadn't imagined I could do ever again.
God Bless.
Scott Kocel That's awesome, good luck and I wish you continued success, God is good!!
Thank you Br. KYLE for taking the time to assure someone like me who just had a similar surgery ,yesterday. I'm in a recovery mode still ( 24 hours after surgery). Your words were very assuring to me. Thank You, My Br. in Humanity.👍👍
Thank you for sharing Kyle, I'm at 1 week post op and this has given me tons of hope. God Bless.
Ashley Singh hang in there, it gets better.
Did you have a PLIF, and I noticed about 2 weeks after mine, nerves flared up on my left side, did that happen for you?
Jeremy, yes it was PLIF and I did have a lot of nerve pain but it went away after a few months.
Kyle Peek this gives me hope, I’m 10 days post op and have a nerve pain on my left leg, my Dr says is inflammation
Its been 7 months for me and im still using a walker, my surgery was the whole thorax had to be replaced, sometime I have pain but its not like in the beginning. I have 3 rods and over 20 screws and im just praying i will get better... i am 58.
Hi Lisa, it's been fine months since your surgery, how are feeling?
I'm 2 1/2 years post l4 and l5 fusion and what I'm left with is sever siactica in my hip and right leg. I do calisthenics every morning to get moving and for walks every other day depending on the weather which now dictates my activity.. I'm 400.000 light years from what I use to be hope things get better soon but I'm a fighter.
Steve, thanks for reaching out. My pain level was maybe a 6 or 7 before the surgery. I could manage it with meds but the loosing feeling in my legs was scaring me. I have been playing golf now for about 7 months and believe it or not my game has improved. I've lost some distance but I hit it much straighter now, I don't swing nearly as hard. As far as the toilet, yep it's true. I think some people probably leave that part out and I hadn't heard that either but I can tell you it's not an easy task for a while. All and all I feel pretty good right now. I'm about 17 months post surgery and I'm feeling pretty good. Not 100%, I don't think you will ever be that again but the pain and loss of feeling are gone and that's an awesome outcome if you've had back issues for a while. There are still things I can't do or lift and things I just shouldn't do period but for the most part my quality of Life has improved dramatically.
I hope your surgery goes well, don't hesitate to ask any questions.
Dear Kyle, i am so happy for you, that your surgery went well for you! My husband had the same fusion 20 years ago at the VA hospital...different outcome. Everybody is different and I would still always encourage to have the surgery done. God bless you and your life!
Thank you for your testimony Kyle. I am only 10 days removed from my L4-S1 fusion. I notice I get stronger everyday but at the moment I am getting extremely sharp muscle spasms going down my right leg. The Dr. said the pain is coming from the nerves. It is very uncomfortable the only thing that gives me some relief is Percocet. Do you recall those sharp pains in your recovery and if so how long did that go in until it stopped? I am restricted now to short walks and I'm looking forward to increasing my distance and getting stronger. I hope you continue to have relief. Prayers going out to you.
Matthew Punako that is normal, scary yes, but normal. I had sharp pain in my nerves for about 2 months, I was given Gabapentin until it went away but it did go away eventually. Keep it up it gets better, lots of walking is the best thing to do.
hi my names justin, I'm 27 from Tuscaloosa al, I was hit on my motorcycle 9/21/14 , shattered my L3 , had my l1 l2 l4 and l5 fused, almost 2 years out in a couple day, still hurt day to day at times but for the most part just try to be careful with lifting and twisting, beats being in a wheel chair because of my wreck, it'll get better, life's a garden dig it brother!
Hi buddy. How are you???
I hope you are fine. Really wanna know that how are you doing now???
@@makeupbykhani8178 my back is better sir just took another hit... lady pulled out I front of me 7/7/2020 I woke up a month and a half later. Broke my right leg at a 90 degree tibia and fibia , had to have a rod in my shin , 1 of my kidneys had to be removed, my left collar bone was broken, my right elbow was shattered had to be rebuilt... I’m done riding bikes for good and I’m blessed to be here, god is good!
@@Taylormade_Detailing thank Godm you are fine.....
Well what's your age now by the way??
@@makeupbykhani8178 32 and counting haha
@@Taylormade_Detailing and what's about your back???? It feels good so far I guess
Kyle, Many thanks for doing this video, it really has put my mind at rest. Like you say, there is so much doom and gloom on youtube regarding L5/S1 fusion that I was beginning to doubt having it, even though I can only really walk or stand for about 60 seconds at a time. I am having a laminectomy also. Thanks to you I know what to expect in the first few weeks and will be ready and waiting for the pain ;-) Once again, many thanks
Hey Kyle, I was just told today that I need to have a PLIF L4-5 Fusion. Everything you said addressed where I'm at and feel that we have very similar situations that require surgical intervention. Thank you for posting this video and the encouragement you gave! God Bless!!!
Timothy Brust I hope that the surgery goes well for you and you make as speedy recovery as I did. Good luck and keep the faith.
I just had one I was scared to death too.6 days post surgery feeling pretty good still very sore still talking pain meds not as much left leg still going numb!! think it will get better
How are you doing with your leg? Had same surgery and my leg is a little numb still I’m 6 weeks post op
@@Vanessa-ju8hv still have leg pain in calves post ten months I have failed back surgery same issues sometimes much worse prior to surgery. My was workman's comp. They don't care if you die. I wish you the best! Everybody is different
I just had my second spinal fusion 4 days ago , am in so much pain don't know what to do, the first surgery was a failure the Dr. Kept telling me that I was gone heal but I never did I got worst, I went to another Dr. & he told me that the hardware was coming Loose, I had a wonderful Dr this time of course am in pain right now , that normal, but I think that am gone be fine🙏🏼🙏🏼hopefully
Aybar 63 how are you now after 8 month?? do you live and work normally without any back pain ??
hazzatb I do feel better , but my back still not fused , don't know why? Cause the Dr. Took a lot of bone ,from my pelvis for the bone graft but my back still hurts , when I walk or do anything , I can't no longer work I resigned from my job 2 weeks ago , cause of the pain , I don't take narcotics , I just take meds to reduce the inflammation , on my last appointment he told me that my back was very inflame ,but I just gone live with the pain, cause I refused to have another spine surgery again,that is the worst surgery, i can't take the pain medicine after surgery ,either I was in a lot of pain after been in surgery for 8 hrs. I had a good Dr. this time , but my back was in bad shape , I had a tumor removed also, I just pray to God that it won't come back . Am glad surgery worked for you. God bless 🙏🏼
I say Pray it cant hurt King Jesus can do anything in his timing have Faith god bless you
Change surgeon...shouldn't have so much pain.
Bendiciones..
Great to hear!!!!!! 4 weeks out for me anterior and posterior l4,5 S1. 2surgeries back to back. Was in ICU for 2days. My digestive system shut down so was in hospital for 10 days. Thank you God for getting me home!
My feet are more on fire than before, that could be a great thing . Nerves could be healing and just firing up! So we will see how it goes. LOL I said the same as far as "if I would do it over" NO WAY. However each day is a better day!
I have faith as well and God willing I will heal to be better than pre surgery.
Really happy for you👍 up and onward! God bless
Thanks for sharing finally taking the plunge after 3 years severe pain
im 5 days post surgery L5,S1 fusion. i feel great. the only thing is my damn hips hurt from laying on my side. but im walking about a football field and up and down stairs
Richie hollis that's awesome, keep it up!!
Kyle Peek in the morning for the frist couple day/ week/weeksdid your legs feel cramped an felt like you just needed to move them a little to get the blood flowing and nerves firing again. next Tuesday will be my 2 week mark.
Richie hollis it was a few months before the nerves calmed down for me. It was probably one of the most frustrating parts not really being able to get much relief from that but eventually everything cal,ed back down and it was fine.
Thank you Kyle after 3 weeks now I've got nerve pain in the bend of my opposite leg now and when I called for more pain mess they tell me I have to start winging myself off now I'm nervous, so it's a normal thing to get more nerve pain a few weeks after surgery?
Yes it was for me and it last for several months. But after that it was fine and it has not returned.
Thanks again Kyle!
Thank you for making this video.😊👍🏻
Thank you for this!! Second positive outcome I've found in one day after weeks of countless horror stories! I've been on the fence scheduling and now feel more confident in doing so. Hope your life has been going well since your surgery. God Bless.
Thanks for your video, I'm in for the same fusion next week and felt a bit crappy today as I thought I was having an artificial disc but due to other issues, it's going to be a fusion at L4/5 instead. I'm a (very) keen golfer and I've been really worried I'm not going to play again. Your vid has made me feel better - thanks 👍🏻 how long before you started playing golf again?
Simon, I didn't play for about 8 months and then I just took it real slow. The first few rounds I only played 9 or 10 holes because I just didn't want to push it. Now no problems and my score has dropped around 8 strokes or more simply because I just slowed everything down. Not all bad!!
+Kyle Peek
thank you mate, feel a lot better about it all now, just been out to the store and just horrible annoying pain getting out of the car, carrying shopping etc.. Got to get this done, can't carry on like this! I've still been trying to play golf but has just about been pointless, hit my handicap once in last 2 years! 8 months sounds good to me - we're just coming up to Autumn/winter so I won't miss playing in the cold anyway! Thanks again, roll on next Thursday!
What causes pressure in lower back after spinal fusion
Hi Simone, I am also an avid golfer and getting fusion in Augist. How are you doing with golf and everything?
Hey Kyle, I had my L4 L5 TLIF surgery on 3/23/16 and the first 4 weeks recovery was as expected. However it is now 5 1/2 weeks post op and I still have back and nerve pain in legs. I have my 6 week post op appointment with surgeon on 5/4/16 and they will be doing x-Ray and ct scan so we will see what's going on. Disappointed so far because I have the same pain now that o had going into the surgery. I'm thinking that the L5 S1 level needs attention because I have a bulging disc at that level. Sucks. Anyway, How are you doing ?
I hate that for you , that's how I was after my first surgery, never got better, I just had another surgery 4 days ago , you're case sound like my, if you have all that pain your surgery didn't work , most likely you will need another one
Perhaps they can do a microdiscectomy instead of a fusion at S1/L5. ASK!
Glad I watched your video. Am having a fusion done too and after watching other post I was shitting myself and thinking there is no way am going through this.but your post have calmed me down. Thanks
needed this video thnk you so much for your time its always a consideration
Well? Its been a little over
4 years since you posted this video. How we doin' today?
Still going strong...
@@kylepeek840Thats awesome!! I'm glad it's working out for you!! I had L3-4 4-5 operated on for blown out discs. They wanted to do the dbl fusion but the one dr said "you don't want that right now. Just deal with what you have the best you can". The back isn't too bad. It's all in my legs😣. I'm used to feeling crappy now tho..lol. Hope everything keeps going good for you!!👍🏻
Hey Kyle......So I had my 6 week post op appointment with surgeon yesterday. We did a CT scan and everything looks good. (screws are in the right place) Got clearance to drive and return to office work 4 hour days for next 6 weeks. I start pool therapy next week. They still stay pain will get better. I also take gabapentin daily and pain meds only evening and night. Surprised that they say I can take ibuprofen because it is a blood thinner. Anyway it was good to hear that your pain lingered for 8 weeks because I thought I was not a normal recovery. Did you still have back pain at 6 weeks because my pain is 50/50 back and leg nerves. Did the pain gradually decrease over what period and when were you basically pain free ? Thanks for your reply. Hope you are doing well.
Oh my they told me I couldn't take Ibuprofen or naproxen for 6 months because it is a blood thinner!
Steve R in
thanks much for this Kyle. I'm having L3 - L5 fused on November 6th. Apprehensive, nervous and somewhat scared, but your story gives me hope. Thanks for sharing. Jeff in KY
Thanks for the very honest assessment.
How are you feeling now? I am looking at a L4-5 issue myself. If you don't mind what is your age? I will be 58 years. Just wondering myself
James McBride I am 54 and I have been doing fine but to be honest I have started to feel a little ache and pains starting to set in. Could just be the climate it's been down in the teens and 20's for a bit now but I feel it from time to time.
Kyle, Thanks for the reply every morning and through the day i am feeling worse. I feel like i am a crippled person. I hope they can do something for me. I have been waiting a month to see this doctor.
James McBride I hope you get in soon and they are able to deal with your pain. I understand believe me, I've been there, it can get better. Keep the faith.
Just had a spinal fusion of L3, L4, L5 W/"Cages" on 09-21-17. So Its been about a week now. My Orthopaedic Surgeon studied the procedure @ Swedish Hospital in Seattle, WA. I was walking on day 2, climbing stairs by day 3! Muscle spasms slowly began to subside. All of my pre-op symptoms (same as everyone's) are gone!
Muscle-strength/control, is fantastic!
Now looking forward to building my cardiovascular system back up after 10yr. of being sedentary.
I'm 61yo. by the way. Just wanted to let folks know that there is hope! The Orthopedic Department @ Swedish Hospital has the Technology! The pain from the "less-invasive" surgery has been tolerable!🏋️♀️
Success❗️💪👏🏻
Thank you for this post. I was just told today about having this surgery and it scared me. But watching this is helpful
Thanks for the video Kyle. It helped me several ways.
Just had my surgery 2 weeks ago. Same as yours. Thanks for sharing your experience is very encouraging
You are a good man .... i send you my love healing energy and my genuine blessing for your process my brother . Your family are very lucky to have you and the other way around 💜
Hi Kyle..thanks sooo much..really appreciate ur honesty and heart..hope ur doing great today💕👍👍
I was diagnosed today with needing the same procedure...Oh My am I glad I watched your video...I'm so terrified of this spinal fusion procedure ..but grateful to you for talking openly about it..THANK YOU!
Thank you for posting this, Kyle!
Thanks so much for posting this!! I meet my surgeon next thursday, October 5, 2017. I am super nervous, but this just made me feel a bit happier and ready to get back to my happy, not hurting self :( Congratulations that you are doing better, praying that you keep healing!
Lauren D thank you and I’m glad it made you feel better, I wish you all the best. Let me know how it goes, good luck and God bless...
Thank you, I’m so glad I watched, I will have my surgery soon.
Hi Kyle I watched your videos before having my L2-L5 fusion and laminectomy, same issues as you beforehand. I’m almost 6 weeks out, still a bit of pain at the end of the day but much better during the day! Thanks for sharing it made the world of difference to me 😁
Nice to hear a good positive voice and good experience with the surgery, mine is scheduled in the near future, and I hope I can have a very positive experience.
Thanks for your honest approach, this is something I may be having done, so like you I've watched information on on tube and it's made me feel positive for this future life, thrives of being able to walk !y dogs again would be amazing, at the moment I can't walk without sticks and take a huge amount of medication for pain. Thanks for sharing your story x